Black death on my diesel work van

[saforwardlook]

This is why I think they will go to a diesel electric system on big trucks, to keep the engine running at a more constant rpm.
Another drawback of D.P.Filter is it makes the truck quiet and that is also unacceptable to some of us.

I agree with you, as many prototypes of heavy duty trucks with a diesel electric system as you describe are already being tested. That is how freight trains have operated for a long time.

Yeah, the diesel sound is gradually disappearing, along with the plumes of black smoke. My neighbor bought a relatively new Ford F250 with the latest new Ford designed diesel engine, and I thought at first it was a gasoline truck until I got a lot closer. Most people would not know it is a diesel.

 

[1978 NYB]

Great view and garage!!!!

 

[Zymurgy]

After reading this thread, I feel better about my 2015 Ford Transit 350 purchase. I'll admit I was disappointed when we bought it. I wanted a diesel, bad. It has the 3.5l ecoboost twin turbo gas engine. We only get about 19 mpg with it but I think that is because the wife lead foots it. On paper, a diesel is the way to go until you get the government involved. They screw up everything.

This is what I am planning to buy next summer, Transit 250 3.5. I will order the van, any options you wish you had now Tink, or any you have you would not do without?

 

[Tink]

I'll give you my best describing our Transit 350. We have the big one with the extended roof in cargo van trim. We bought it off the lot and the kid wasn't all that helpful with Ford available option packages.

We have bulky display room items to transport and the room inside this truck is just right without having to disassemble them. Nothing new to owners of these vans but new to us After having several E350's and trailers (open and closed), this van is what we needed.

I love the rear doors as they fold along the sides helping loading. The step up is high though and ramps or steps should be considered. I've loaded a 2300# pallet of wax through the side door with a forklift and it was a breeze. The rear bumper is in the way and that load would be to rearward or the axle for comfort.

The windows and mirrors are great but it needs a rear facing camera for backing. The windshield is prone to rock chips, (2) in 12K miles. I wish the mirrors had power retract for narrow streets and other locations.

No BOOST GAUGE!!! Not even through the electronics! This thing is fast for a big van. Much faster than any E350 we ever owned. The tires sing at highway speed. It needs more sound deadening. It a bit loud in stock form. We haven't decided what to do with the walls yet.

 

[Zymurgy]

Thanks for review. I think a rear camera is an option. I got used to my Sprinter with time, but would order one if available. I have heard there is some road noise, I am getting an aftermarket bulkhead with pass through door. That will take care of a lot of the cargo area noise.

 

[Tink]

Good luck with your new van purchase. I misspoke about a very important fact and the wife set me straight. Our van averages mid 14 mpg, not the 19 mpg I stated. Sorry about that and talking about a Ford on FCBO forums.

Danny

 

[Zymurgy]

Good luck with your new van purchase. I misspoke about a very important fact and the wife set me straight.sent Our van averages mid 14 mpg, not the 19 mpg I stated. Sorry about that and talking about a Ford on FCBO forums.

Danny

You got me all excited. I was thinking he is complaining about 19 with a big *** van. The best average on the diesel is 20-22. 14 is disappointing I was hoping for around 16-17 with the 3.5. Thanks for the input Danny.